Sant Gadge Maharaj
Sant Gadge Maharaj
Sant Gadge Maharaj, also known as Gadge Baba, was a revered Indian saint and social reformer from Maharashtra. Born on 23 February 1876, he chose a life of voluntary poverty, traveling from village to village to spread messages of social justice, cleanliness, and compassion. Renowned for his efforts to improve rural sanitation and eliminate social evils, he inspired generations and continues to be honored by the public, NGOs, and political leaders across India.
Name – Sant Gadge Maharaj
Born – Debuji Zhingraji Janorkar 23 February 1876 Shendgaon, Berar Province, British India
Died – 20 December 1956 (aged 80) Walgaon, Maharashtra, India
Main interests – Religion, kirtans, ethics
Debuji Zhingraji Janorkar, popularly known as Sant Gadge Maharaj, was born in Shendgaon, Maharashtra, into a backward-class Dhobi farming family. A wandering social reformer and spiritual teacher, he traveled from village to village, cleaning roads and gutters with a broom, promoting hygiene and selfless service. Using funds donated by villagers, he built schools, hospitals, dharmashalas, and animal shelters.
Through powerful kirtans, he spread messages of compassion, anti-superstition, and human equality, often quoting Saint Kabir. He strongly opposed animal sacrifice and alcohol abuse. Known for his simple living and dedication to the poor, he left his family to serve society.
Gadge Maharaj had several meetings with Meher Baba, who recognized him as a highly advanced soul. Their joint darshan in Pandharpur in 1954 drew thousands of devotees.
Gadge Baba deeply influenced Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar with his kirtans promoting social reform, while Ambedkar echoed the same ideals through politics. Inspired by Ambedkar’s dedication to education, Gadge Baba donated his Pandharpur hostel to Ambedkar’s People’s Education Society. He often cited Ambedkar as a role model for the power of education beyond caste or poverty. The two met often, sharing a commitment to uplift the marginalized. Ambedkar praised Gadge Baba as the greatest public servant after Jyotirao Phule.
Sant Gadge Baba passed away on 20 December 1956 near Walgaon, on the banks of the Pedhi River, while traveling to Amravati. In his memory, the Government of Maharashtra launched the Sant Gadge Baba Gram Swachata Abhiyan in 2000–01, a rural cleanliness drive that rewards villages maintaining high standards of hygiene. To further honor his contribution, the Government of India introduced a National Award for Sanitation and Water in his name. Additionally, Amravati University was renamed Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University as a tribute to his legacy.